Those interests in mechanical and electronic engineering led him to enroll at Texas State Technical College’s Harlingen campus, where he is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Mechatronics Technology and where his father is an instructor in the same program.

Reyes said the moments he spent building electronic kits with his father were fun, and the robotics students’ collaboration with each other was inspiring.

“The kits were basically Legos, but with more electrical components,” he said. “At my old high school, I would get a glimpse of the robotics club photos and competitions. I found it really interesting.”

Reyes’ father, Carlos Reyes, is a TSTC alumnus. He earned an Electronic Servicing Technology certificate of completion in 1981 and an Electronics Technology Associate of Applied Science degree in 1986 from the college.

The third-year Mechatronics instructor has been teaching at TSTC for more than 20 years.

Mentoring his son and the new spring cohort motivates him to train them for success.

“I advise them to learn as much as possible while in the program,” he said.

Jose Reyes remarked that his father is definitely another reason why he enrolled.

“Just by the fact that he teaches what I am going to be learning is an advantage,” he said. “By observing his projects, I will be able to comprehend the material and future endeavors.”

He revealed that what excites him is the program’s future.

“The modern world is starting to run solely on technology and different components of mechatronics technology,” he said. “I am excited to learn how the things that I create work the way they do.”

In Texas, electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians can earn around $69,000 a year. The number of these jobs in the state is expected to increase 8% by 2028.

TSTC offers Mechatronics Technology at the Harlingen campus, where students can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree or an Electromechanical Automation occupational skills award.

For more information, go to tstc.edu.

However, COVID-19 has added new hurdles for professionals on both the occupational and the environmental sides of the industry.

“It’s actually pretty chaotic,” said Andrea Skinner-Creeks, a Texas State Technical College Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance instructor.

On the occupational side, workplace regulations are changing.

Skinner-Creeks attended a class last month in Houston that brought together compliance professionals and companies to discuss regulations for COVID in the workplace. An attorney was on hand to answer questions, and frustrations were high on all sides.

“Laws don’t get made overnight,” Skinner-Creeks said. “It takes years. With COVID, we don’t have years. We have to implement stuff.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor has frequently updated its website, osha.gov, to address workplace safety amid the challenges presented by a swiftly changing pandemic.

In the classroom at TSTC, Skinner-Creeks urges her students to be aware of those updates.

“It’s definitely a moving target — everything is fluid,” she said. “I try to get the students to channel their analytical skills. You have to be able to reason your way through things.”

Skinner-Creeks covers everything from instilling a basic understanding of pathogens to the proper disposal of medical waste. She also ensures that her students know how to put on and take off protective gloves — there is a proper method.

On the environmental side of the issue, incinerators are backlogged for disposal of everything from regular manufacturing waste to the increase of medical waste — and personal protective equipment like gloves and masks. The delay has affected logistics on keeping certain items in stock due to storage limitations.

“All that ties into an environmental health and safety specialist,” Skinner-Creeks said. “Their job is really challenging right now.”

There are silver linings, though, she adds. Safety laws that were written and implemented vaguely — and that often require letters of interpretation — are being addressed more specifically. And an increased emphasis on workplace safety and compliance means additional opportunities for careers in the industry.

In Texas, occupational health and safety technicians can earn an average annual salary of $46,840, according to onetonline.org, which projects that the number of technicians in Texas will grow by 16% through 2028. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that Texas employs the most occupational health and safety technicians, with the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan area first among other metropolitan areas for the highest employment level of these positions.

The demand for qualified professionals will continue to expand, Skinner-Creeks said, explaining that she can foresee companies hiring multiple technicians to address all facets of occupational and environmental safety.

“I see a lot more positions out there,” she said. “Companies are really gearing up (to hire health and safety professionals) because they want to remain functional. There’s going to be a lot of room for opportunity and growth.”

TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance at its Breckenridge, Fort Bend County and Waco campuses.

To learn more, visit tstc.edu.

Students moved into their dorm rooms or apartments prior to the first day of school on Monday, Jan. 10, and quickly had a feeling of being a college student. With the Wellness and Recreation Center now open for workouts, basketball or pool games, or a walk around the track, students are able to relax and enjoy themselves.

During the fall semester, TSTC began to lift some of the safeguards in place due to COVID-19.

“We used to take a to-go container out and eat in our rooms. But now we can sit in the cafeteria with classmates and have a conversation,” said James Chung, a Wind Energy Technology student. “It is great that we can visit with our friends outside of the labs. We also had some limitations working out in our rooms, but now we get more motivation to work out by using the gym.”

Josh Leath, also a Wind Energy Technology student, said it is good to be able to use the workout equipment.

“Being able to get out and work out really keeps people in shape,” he said.

Joni Coons, intramural programs coordinator, said she has been excited to see students return to a normal college life. She is also excited about another opportunity.

“The fitness center is open back to both students and the public,” she said. “The public is welcome to join us.”

The Wellness and Recreation Center is currently open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For public membership fees, call Coons at 325-235-7418.

Coons said even with the center open, safety is always the top priority.

“We have purchased several new pieces of equipment in the past year and are working hard to keep things clean and safe during this COVID environment,” she said.

One of the biggest changes on the Sweetwater campus is that the Campus Store has moved into the Student Center. Tracy Calvin, a retail associate at the store, said students have adjusted to the new location.

“The students are happy we are here because this (the Student Center) is where they are when not in class,” she said.

Coons has planned several activities for students this semester, including laser tag, a pool tournament, and three-on-three basketball.

“We are really excited to see those kinds of activities going again,” she said.

To keep the activities available, Chung knows what students will have to do.

“We will have to be safe and enjoy the campus life,” he said. 

For more information on TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

To help him prepare for the future, Denson is working on a certificate of completion in Industrial Systems at Texas State Technical College. 

His father owns two businesses in the Abilene area, and Denson wants to be his successor.

“I plan to own those businesses one day, and I do not know everything I need to know about them,” he said. “I have worked for him for the past six years, and I know he cannot teach me everything.”

For that reason, Denson enrolled at TSTC to learn a little of everything in the maintenance field. Industrial Systems students learn skills needed to repair and maintain hydraulic systems, pneumatic equipment, conveyor systems, and electrical and mechanical controls, as well as learning welding.

“I know I will need to work on my troubleshooting skills in order to be successful,” Denson said.

His father’s two businesses include a tree service company, which clears areas for power and transmission lines, and a wind turbine recycling business.

Instructor Terry Steelman said Denson is motivated to take over his father’s businesses.

“I see his drive each time he is in class, and I know he will be successful,” Steelman said. “He has learned a lot from his father, and I know this program will help him grow.”

Denson has been able to show his new skills to co-workers, and they have been impressed.

“We were working on a tractor one day, and someone said we needed to rethread a helix coil,” he said. “That was one of our assignments a few days earlier, and I told everyone I could do it. They were impressed with what I was able to do because of what I learned in class.”

Denson has also used the skills he has learned on the job while in the lab. He has been able to help classmates with different scenarios and has built many friendships.

Those friendships extend to a weekly lunchtime Bible study led by Industrial Systems instructor Daniel Diaz.

“When I saw some of my classmates attend, I knew I wanted to go,” Denson said. “We have become really good friends, and it is important to have that close environment so we can all succeed.”

Denson learned about the Industrial Systems program when his Jim Ned High School class toured the campus.

“I also knew some of the graduates of the program. They told me they loved the program and were already working,” he said.

The one area of his father’s businesses that he does not have to worry about is the business side.

“My father is teaching me everything about the business aspect,” he said. “I know a lot of the stuff in the shop and have already been OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certified.”

Denson said his father did offer him one piece of advice before he started college.

“He told me to do the best I can possibly do,” he said. “I know that I will be using everything I learn in the real world, and I want to learn all of this.”

The need for industrial machinery mechanics will increase over the next few years. According to onetonline.org, such positions are expected to grow by 13% in Texas by 2028. The average salary for an industrial machinery mechanic in Texas is $54,980, according to the website.

At its Abilene campus, TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Industrial Systems – Mechanical Specialization and a certificate of completion in Industrial Systems Mechanic.

Industrial Systems is one of nine programs at TSTC that have money-back guarantees. The college’s commitment to students is simple: If they do not have a job in their field within six months of graduation, they will receive a full refund of their tuition. For more information on the money-back guarantee program, visit https://www.tstc.edu/admissions/tuition/.

Registration for the spring semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.

Veronica Munguia, a TSTC Culinary Arts instructor, said various regions prepare them differently.

“We use cornhusks, fill and fold over the masa for the ones we are most familiar with,” she said. “Some examples are the Oaxacan tamales, which are wrapped in banana leaves adding a unique flavor. In Michoacán, there is a sweet tamale called the Canarian. It is prepared with rice flour and other ingredients that are mixed together then wrapped in corn husks and cooked.”

The tamale, which originated from Mesoamerica, dates back to ancient civilizations as early as 8000 BC.

It is traditional for family and friends to come together during the holidays and help prepare them. The process is lengthy, but well-deserved.

Tamales are made of masa, a ground corn moistened with water and wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. Traditionally, they are filled with pork, beef, chicken and beans. Modern recipes now include beef brisket, black bean and cheese, seafood, habanero pork, and countless others.

And, there is a special day just for the tamale. March 23 is National Tamale Day.

As new chefs make their footprint, only time will tell how their tamales will revolutionize and honor tradition.

The yearly median salary in Texas for chefs and head cooks is over $56,000, with more than 7,700 chefs needed by 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop website.

TSTC’s Culinary Arts program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and several certificates of completion at the Harlingen, East Williamson County, and Waco campuses.

Registration for the spring semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.

 “The provost’s office is very excited to welcome back our students taking both virtual and hybrid classes,” said Jerome Mendias, TSTC’s associate provost. “ We could not be happier to kick off another successful semester and get our students placed closer to achieving their goals and pursuing their careers.”

A large portion of the Kultgen Automotive Center, home to TSTC’s Automotive Technology program, was empty. This is because all of the equipment in the classroom-portion of the building was moved out during the holiday break to make way for a renovation project scheduled to be completed by this fall to accommodate the program’s performance-based education initiative. Automotive Technology students will temporarily take classes at the Fentress Center, the Industrial Technology Center and in the automotive garage-lab in the Kultgen Automotive Center.

“The students are going to get a lot more in-shop experience,” said George Williams, lead instructor in TSTC’s Automotive Technology program. “They will be spending a lot more time in labs.”

Rodion Cantacuzene, of Belton, is scheduled to graduate this semester from the Robotics Technology program. He said staying awake for his first morning class on Monday was a challenge.

“I really missed it (TSTC),” he said. “I had fun on my break. Coming back is nice and it is good to see my classmates.”

Resident advisors in Griffith Hall and Red River Apartments are having small activities for residents during the week. 

The Village Oaks Apartments at TSTC continued their “Friends” theme from last fall to welcome students back for the spring semester. Residents are taking part this week in events centered on board games, s’mores and tie-dye.

Ethan Williams, of Madisonville, is a Village Oaks resident advisor and an Electrical Power and Controls major scheduled to graduate this semester.

“I look forward to finding a job and a good company I can rely on,” he said about his big goal for the semester.

The Murray Watson Jr. Student Recreation Center will be open this semester  from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Mondays to Thursdays, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays. A game night is planned for this week.

For more information, go to tstc.edu. 

Turney is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Networking and Systems Administration at TSTC with a goal of beginning his new career.

“I was seeking a higher-paying career, and that is the reason I chose to attend TSTC,” he said. “I am halfway through the program and have not been disappointed.”

Turney is not a stranger to TSTC, but he decided several years ago not to finish college. He did know that TSTC would be a good choice if we wanted to return to school. 

Instructor Renee Blackshear now sees in him a motivated student who plans to succeed.

“Matthew started his information technology education while in high school and has come to college at TSTC with a positive attitude and incredible work ethic,” she said. “His ability to master complex topics is phenomenal, and we are delighted to have Matthew as part of the Computer Networking and Systems Administration program.”

Turney returned to TSTC because of a new style of learning available to him and other students.

TSTC’s Computer Networking and Systems Administration program now uses the performance-based education model, which allows students to have flexibility with their schedules as they master set competencies. Faculty members guide the students as they take courses.

“I enjoy the new accelerated program because we are able to learn at our pace,” he said. “I was surprised by how quickly it can be done. It is very nice getting a degree twice as fast and at half the cost.”

Turney is also surprised by what he has been able to learn during the first half of the program.

“I’ve gained a good bit of knowledge about networking and servers,” he said.

Turney has some advice for students beginning the program.

“I would tell people to get ahead on your assignments as early as possible,” he said. “It will help you out in the future.”

Turney is motivated to complete the program for his children.

“I am trying to be a good example for them and everyone around me,” he said.

Turney knows that he will have job opportunities closer to graduation. One specific opportunity for him would be a perfect fit.

“I think a remote system administration job would be ideal for me and my family,” he said.

TSTC also offers an advanced technical certificate in Cloud Computing. Both the associate degree and certificate programs are available completely online.

Computer-user support specialists can make an average of $47,460 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Onetonline.org predicts that this career will grow by 19% in Texas by 2028.

For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

To help keep up with new trends, Texas State Technical College and Practice Management Institute have teamed up to train Hendrick Health staff members on the new upscale medical and billing coding systems. The one aspect of the industry that never changes is the need for current, up-to-date information by doctors, nurses and staff on the business side of running a practice.

TSTC recently received a $255,586 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission to facilitate the training with PMI for Hendrick employees in Abilene and Brownwood.

“This is a great opportunity for us to partner with a great team at PMI to facilitate this training,” said Cindy Brunett, TSTC’s executive director of workforce training.

PMI, recognized by both the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Department of Labor for training in medical coding, third-party billing, office management and compliance, is a leading training, networking and credentialing resource for medical office professionals.

Michael Moore, PMI’s vice president of partner development, is thrilled with the continued difference that these partnerships are making in the everyday work lives of Hendrick Health employees.

“Our organizations share a common mission to help medical office personnel stay on top of the latest industry changes, trends and solutions, and we support them fully in the commitment they have to the success of their employees,” he said. “This is our third Skills Development Fund grant in the Hendrick Health/TSTC/PMI collaboration, and it is so great to see the Texas Workforce Commission mission being carried out in this way.”

Hendrick employees will be offered numerous courses taught by TSTC and PMI employees.

“We are going to cover a wide range of topics, from clinical documentation to medical coding,” said Sarah Brooks, TSTC’s Health Information Technology program director.

Lori Sweet, compliance manager for Hendrick, said having the most up-to-date information will help the staff become stronger.

“Hendrick is very supportive of their staff and believes any education that will support and help build a stronger health care system is important,” she said. “The partnership with TSTC and PMI has helped to build and improve employee skills that impact the quality of care of patients, families, the community and surrounding areas.”

In 2021, Hendrick expanded its services to a larger community and new facilities.

“This opportunity has brought training to staff that has not had opportunities of specialized training,” Sweet said. “This partnership has created an enthusiasm by staff to expand their knowledge and expand on their skills within our organization.”

Brooks said employees will learn the latest information to keep pace with the growing health care industry – with one goal.

“We want the staff to be abreast of the best and latest practices because this all leads back to offering the best patient care possible.”

For more information, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC’s Advocacy and Resource Center will host a grand opening for its new center Feb. 2.

“One of the biggest projects we are excited for is remodeling and expanding our Advocacy and Resource Center on campus,” said Belinda Palomino, TSTC’s Advocacy and Resource Center coordinator. “The new space will provide more access to services for all students.”

Resources available for students through the center include the food pantry, child care assistance program, transportation assistance program, and the book and tool loan program.

A virtual information session Jan. 19 will follow the grand opening.

The center has scheduled a community resource fair on Feb. 9.

Lisa Garza, TSTC’s Advocacy and Resource Center coach, said the center will extend invitations to TSTC students and community organizations.

“Information will be provided about programs and services available for students that need assistance with basic needs,” she said. “For example, child care providers, food pantries, affordable healthcare organizations and much more.”

A Women in Technology event will be held March 8, geared toward recruiting women into TSTC’s Automotive Technology, Precision Machining Technology and Electrical Lineworker Technology programs.

“Women who are currently enrolled at TSTC and haven’t decided on a pathway yet – or other young women who have yet to begin their educational journey – can attend this event,” Palomino said.

March 8 is International Women’s Day. The department’s focus for the Women in Technology event is to inspire female prospective students to challenge themselves in an in-demand field and pursue a technical degree.

Students will also have the opportunity to attend life skills workshops throughout the spring semester.

Additional information and a calendar of events can be found by visiting the Advocacy and Resource Center’s “culture of caring” website through the TSTC portal.

To learn more about TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

It was El Campo resident Joshua Laslie’s first semester at TSTC, though he intends to finish his bachelor’s degree in emergency management from Louisiana State University this semester as well.

He hopes to expand his experience in TSTC’s Welding Technology program with a focus in Structural Welding.

“Honestly, I just want to learn a new skill,” he said. “I grew up farming, so I want to learn ag welding.”

Monday marked the start of TSTC welding student Daniel Alvarado’s second semester at TSTC.

“It’s been really fun,” he said. “I kind of sometimes wish I had more time. Toward the end of last semester, I was able to come in on different days, so I appreciated that.”

After he earns his Associate of Applied Science degree, the Sugar Land resident aims to start getting real-world welding experience. His dream job is to be an underwater welder.

Alvarado and Laslie are two of the 467 students registered for the spring semester at TSTC’s campus in Fort Bend County. As of Friday, Jan. 7, TSTC senior enrollment coach Georgeann Calzada counted 66 new students and 401 returning students for this semester.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to normalcy — whatever that looks like for 2022 — and having students on campus and continuing their education,” she said.

Jonathan Bonkoske, lead instructor for TSTC’s Electrical Power and Controls program, also looked forward to welcoming students to classes and labs this semester.

“Having that interaction, being able to see their expressions — see their faces, see the learning going on — and working with them through problems, we’re slowly getting back to somewhat normal here,” he said.

Normalcy includes everything from relevant, hands-on training to the reopening of the campus snack bar, which had been closed due to the pandemic, TSTC Fort Bend County provost Randy Wooten said.

“We’re doing great things — and the same things that have made us successful in the past,” Wooten said, explaining that TSTC remains committed to its mission of placing more Texans in good-paying jobs.

TSTC encourages wearing masks, social distancing and staying home if students, faculty or staff feel ill — protocols that prioritize everyone’s health on campus, he added.

“We’re serious about keeping people safe,” Wooten said.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.